A stop at Pastéis de Belém is one of those simple pleasures that quickly becomes a highlight of any trip to Lisbon. Opened in 1837, this historic bakery has been serving its famous custard tarts for nearly two centuries, and it's easy to see why people keep coming back.

There's a lively, almost comforting atmosphere inside, with the scent of freshly baked pastries and the gentle buzz of conversation all around. It's the sort of place where you can take a short break from sightseeing and just enjoy the moment.

The tarts themselves are best enjoyed warm, with a light sprinkle of cinnamon and icing sugar. Sitting down with one and a coffee feels like a small but memorable part of experiencing the city, making it a lovely and authentic addition to your itinerary.